Augusta, Georgia (September 15, 1945 – September 30, 2019) age 74 yrs

Jessye Mae Norman was an American opera singer and recitalist. Norman had a commanding presence on operatic, concert, and recital stages. She was linked to roles including Beethoven’s Leonore. Her repertoire also included Wagner’s Sieglinde and Kundry.
Additionally, she was known for Berlioz’s Cassandre and Didon, and Bartók’s Judith. Norman performed at the 1996 Summer Olympics opening ceremony. In 1998, she performed a recital at Carnegie Hall incorporating sacred music by Duke Ellington. In March 2009, Norman curated Honor! It was a celebration of the African-American cultural legacy. The event honored African-American trailblazers and artists. It featured concerts, recitals, lectures, and panel discussions. There were also exhibitions hosted by Carnegie Hall, the Apollo Theater, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, and other sites around New York City. In March 2014, she was featured at Green Music Center Weill Hall. This was on the campus of Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park, California. It was a tribute to George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald. In April 2018, Norman was honored as the 12th recipient of the Glenn Gould Prize. She received this honor for her contribution to opera and the arts.